The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about influential people in our lives. One common topic is describing someone who has inspired you to pursue your goals. This theme frequently appears in Part 2 and Part 3 of the Speaking test, making it essential for test-takers to be well-prepared.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about inspiration and role models. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:
Question: Do you have any role models?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I do have a role model. It’s my high school teacher who always encouraged me to work hard and believe in myself. She really inspired me to pursue my goals.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. I’ve been profoundly influenced by my high school English teacher, Mrs. Smith. Her unwavering dedication to education and her ability to ignite a passion for learning in her students have been truly inspirational. She’s been a guiding light in my academic journey and has significantly shaped my career aspirations.
Part 2: Long Turn
Cue Card:
Describe A Person Who Has Inspired You To Pursue Your Goals.
You should say:
- Who this person is
- How you know this person
- What goals this person has inspired you to pursue
- And explain why this person has been so inspirational to you
Band 6-7 Sample Answer:
The person who has inspired me to pursue my goals is my uncle, John. I’ve known him since I was a child, as he’s my father’s younger brother. He’s always been a part of our family gatherings and events.
My uncle has inspired me to pursue a career in environmental science. He works as an environmental consultant and has always been passionate about protecting nature. Whenever we meet, he talks about his projects and the importance of preserving our planet.
He’s been so inspirational to me because of his dedication to his work and his positive impact on the environment. I admire how he combines his passion with his career, and it’s made me realize that I can do the same. His enthusiasm is contagious, and it’s motivated me to study hard and aim for a similar career path.
Band 8-9 Sample Answer:
The individual who has profoundly inspired me to pursue my goals is my uncle, Dr. John Smith. I’ve had the privilege of knowing him since childhood, as he’s my father’s younger sibling and has been an integral part of our family dynamics.
Dr. Smith has been the catalyst for my aspiration to pursue a career in environmental science. As a renowned environmental consultant, he has dedicated his life to safeguarding our planet’s ecosystems. Our interactions are always intellectually stimulating, as he shares insights about his groundbreaking projects and emphasizes the critical importance of environmental conservation.
What makes him exceptionally inspirational is his unwavering commitment to his profession and the tangible positive impact he has on the environment. I’m in awe of how he has seamlessly integrated his passion into his career, demonstrating that it’s possible to make a living while making a difference. His infectious enthusiasm has been a driving force, motivating me to excel academically and set my sights on a similar career trajectory.
Inspired by environmental scientist uncle
Follow-up questions:
- How has this person’s influence changed your life?
Band 6-7 Answer:
My uncle’s influence has really changed my perspective on career choices. Before, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, but now I have a clear goal in mind. It’s made me more focused and determined in my studies.
Band 8-9 Answer:
My uncle’s influence has been truly transformative. His guidance has not only crystallized my career aspirations but has also instilled in me a deep sense of environmental responsibility. This paradigm shift has permeated every aspect of my life, from my academic choices to my daily habits, making me more environmentally conscious and goal-oriented.
- Do you think it’s important for young people to have role models?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think it’s very important for young people to have role models. They can learn from their experiences and get inspiration for their own lives. Role models can show young people what’s possible if they work hard.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. I believe role models play a crucial role in shaping young minds. They serve as living examples of what one can achieve through dedication and perseverance. Role models provide a roadmap for success, demystify the path to achieving one’s goals, and offer invaluable insights that can help young people navigate the complexities of life and career choices.
Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Question: How do you think social media influencers impact young people’s goals and aspirations?
Band 6-7 Answer:
I think social media influencers have a big impact on young people’s goals. Many young people look up to these influencers and want to be like them. This can be good if the influencers promote positive values, but it can also be negative if they set unrealistic expectations.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Social media influencers wield considerable power in shaping the aspirations of today’s youth. Their impact is multifaceted and can be both beneficial and detrimental. On the positive side, influencers can broaden horizons, introducing young people to diverse career paths and lifestyles they might not have otherwise considered. They can also inspire entrepreneurship and creativity.
However, there’s a flip side to this influence. The curated nature of social media content often presents an unrealistic portrayal of success and lifestyle, potentially leading to unrealistic expectations and disillusionment among young followers. Moreover, the emphasis on materialism and external validation prevalent in influencer culture can skew young people’s values and priorities.
It’s crucial for young people to develop critical thinking skills to navigate this digital landscape, discerning between authentic inspiration and superficial content. Balanced exposure to a variety of role models, both online and offline, is key to fostering well-rounded aspirations and realistic goal-setting.
Describe a person who has influenced your outlook on life in a similar way to how social media influencers impact young people, but perhaps with a more personal and profound effect.
Question: In what ways can inspirational figures from history motivate people today?
Band 6-7 Answer:
Historical figures can motivate people today by showing us what’s possible. Their stories of overcoming challenges and making a difference can inspire us to work hard and pursue our own goals. We can learn from their mistakes and successes.
Band 8-9 Answer:
Inspirational figures from history serve as enduring beacons of human potential, offering timeless lessons that transcend their eras. Their stories resonate across generations, providing compelling narratives of resilience, innovation, and moral courage that can galvanize individuals to strive for greatness in their own contexts.
These historical icons embody universal virtues such as perseverance, integrity, and visionary thinking, which are as relevant today as they were in their time. By studying their lives, people can gain invaluable insights into overcoming adversity, challenging societal norms, and effecting transformative change.
Moreover, historical figures often tackled issues that continue to be relevant, offering blueprints for addressing contemporary challenges. Their long-term impact demonstrates the ripple effect of individual actions, inspiring people to consider their own legacies and long-term contributions to society.
However, it’s crucial to approach historical figures with a nuanced perspective, acknowledging both their achievements and their flaws. This balanced view allows for a more authentic inspiration, encouraging individuals to aspire to greatness while recognizing the complexity of human nature and the ongoing process of personal growth.
Historical figures inspiring modern people
Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
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Profound impact /prəˈfaʊnd ˈɪmpækt/ (adjective + noun): Having a deep and significant effect.
Example: “My mentor’s guidance had a profound impact on my career choices.” -
Catalyst /ˈkætəlɪst/ (noun): A person or thing that precipitates an event or change.
Example: “Meeting that successful entrepreneur was the catalyst for starting my own business.” -
Unwavering commitment /ʌnˈweɪvərɪŋ kəˈmɪtmənt/ (adjective + noun): Steady and determined dedication.
Example: “Her unwavering commitment to social justice inspired many to join the cause.” -
Paradigm shift /ˈpærədaɪm ʃɪft/ (noun): A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions.
Example: “Learning about climate change caused a paradigm shift in how I view consumption.” -
Galvanize /ˈɡælvənaɪz/ (verb): To shock or excite someone into taking action.
Example: “The speech galvanized the audience into supporting the environmental initiative.”
Describe a person who is an inspiration to many using these advanced vocabulary terms to elevate your speaking performance.
Examiner’s Advice
To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing an inspirational person:
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Prepare diverse examples: Have various inspirational figures in mind, from personal acquaintances to public figures, to adapt to different question types.
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Use specific details: Provide concrete examples of how the person inspired you, avoiding vague generalizations.
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Demonstrate reflection: Show deep thought about why and how this person has influenced you, connecting their impact to your personal growth and goals.
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Employ advanced vocabulary: Integrate sophisticated words and phrases naturally into your responses, showcasing your language proficiency.
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Practice storytelling: Develop your ability to narrate the inspirational person’s impact coherently and engagingly within the given time frame.
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Develop critical thinking: Be prepared to discuss broader implications of role models and inspiration in Part 3, demonstrating analytical skills and the ability to connect ideas.
Describe a person who has achieved something important by applying these strategies to showcase your speaking abilities effectively.
Remember, the key to a high score lies not just in what you say, but how you articulate your thoughts. Regular practice with these techniques will help you become more confident and proficient in expressing your ideas about inspirational figures in your life.
